What is the distance from Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa to the Beatrix Potter Exhibition?
The Beatrix Potter Exhibition is located just 200 m from the hotel.
MACDONALD OLD ENGLAND HOTEL & SPA, Bowness-on-Windermere
Key details
About the Hotel
Church Street, Bowness-on-Windermere, LA23 3DF,
- Close to Bowness Bay
Very good
7.5
7.5
3.1
3.7
Visit England Gold Award-winning hotel on the shores of Lake Windermere
Overview
The Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa holds a
Rooms
All 106 rooms include flat-screen TVs,
Dining
The Lakeview Restaurant offers an award-winning British menu based on local and organic ingredients. The Terrace Bar and Lounge serves light meals and a
Spa & Wellness
The spa centre includes a
Local Area
The hotel is set in mature gardens a short walk from Bowness-on-Windermere town centre. The
Highlights
Location: Shores of Lake Windermere, private jetty with moorings
Awards: Visit England Gold Award
Rooms: Family rooms and dog-friendly accommodations
Spa: ELEMIS spa, 20-metre pool, sauna, ice room
Dining: Award-winning Lakeview Restaurant
Local: Beatrix Potter Exhibition 200 metres away
Must-do experiences
- Take a scenic boat cruise on Lake Windermere for stunning views.
- Visit the Beatrix Potter Gallery to explore her enchanting world.
- Savor a slice of Grasmere gingerbread at Sara's Shop in Grasmere.
- Discover the hidden Wray Castle, a picturesque Victorian fortress.
- Stroll through the Bowness-on-Windermere market for local crafts.
Select your preferred room
Choose from standard rooms, family suites, or deluxe options — with breakfast and flexible rates
- Standard Twin Room2 persons21 m²2 Single bedsHeatingShowerroom details
- Standard Double Room2 persons21 m²1 Double bedHeatingShowerroom details
- Standard King Room2 persons21 m²1 King-size bedHeatingShowerroom details
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Hotel facilities and services
Each hotel provides modern amenities for a relaxing and pleasant stay
General
- No smoking on site
- Wi-Fi
- Parking
- Safe deposit box
- 24-hour reception
- VIP check-in/ -out
- Express check-in/ -out
- No pets allowed
- Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
- 24-hour security
- Luggage storage
- Locker room
- Allergy-free rooms
- Lift
- Smoke detectors
- Electric vehicle charging station
- Fire extinguishers
- Key card access
- Key access
Sports & Fitness
- Fitness centre
Services
- Room service
- Housekeeping
- Laundry
- Dry cleaning
- Tours/Ticket assistance
- Welcome drink
Dining
- In-room breakfast
- Restaurant
- Snack bar
- Bar/ Lounge area
- Packed lunches
- Special diet menus
Business
- Meeting/ Banquet facilities
- Fax/Photocopying
Children
- Cots
- Children's buffet
- Board games
Spa & Leisure
- Indoor swimming pool
- Sun terrace
- Garden area
- Spa & wellness centre
- Sauna
- Steam room
- Back massage
- Head massage
- Full body massage
- Foot massage
Room features
- Heating
- Soundproofed rooms
- Sitting area
- Terrace
- Garden furniture
- Tea and coffee facilities
- Ironing facilities
Bathroom
- Separate tub and shower
- Free toiletries
Self-catering
- Electric kettle
Media
- Flat-screen TV
Room decor
- Carpeted floor
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Dining Onsite
At the Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa, dining transcends the ordinary, offering a blend of local influences and breathtaking views of the Lake District. Guests can indulge in a variety of culinary delights, from refreshing lunch options to sumptuous evening meals, all set against a stunning backdrop of the Cumbrian countryside.
Lakeview Restaurant
Modern British
Ambiance
Basking in natural light with panoramic views of the glistening lake, this sophisticated restaurant offers a tranquil setting for a leisurely dining experience.
Key Offerings
The menu caters to all dietary preferences, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free options, ensuring every guest finds something to enjoy. A two-course lunch and elegant evening meals are highlights.
Reservation
Recommended.
Open for breakfast and dinner.
Seagrave Bar
Casual Bar Dining
Ambiance
This cozy bar provides a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration or business. It's an excellent venue for private drinks or casual gatherings.
Key Offerings
Featuring an extensive selection of fine wines, spirits, and crafted cocktails, the Seagrave Bar is ideal for socializing and indulging in light bites.
Reservation
Not needed.
Hours vary.
Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa Location
Church Street, Bowness-on-Windermere, LA23 3DF,
Map view
City landmarks
Landmark
Windermere Jetty Museum of Boats
860 m
Museum
National Trust Hill Top
3.4 km
Landmark
Belle Isle
860 m
Gallery
Blackwell The Arts and Crafts House
2.32 km
Landmark
Aquarius Amusements
600 m
Landmark
Windermere Steamboat Museum
1.63 km
Landmark
Cockshott Point
770 m
Landmark
Brant Fell Viewpoint
1.05 km
Gallery
Cook House Gallery
1.92 km
Gallery
Thuline Studio
1.93 km
Landmark
High Street
2.09 km
Store
Windermere Canoe and Kayak
1.15 km
Landmark
Orrest Head
2.76 km
Landmark
Storrs
1.28 km
Landmark
Windy Hall
1.39 km
Landmark
St Mary's Church
2.02 km
Landmark
Claife Heights
2.05 km
Landmark
Queen's Park
1.76 km
Gallery
North South Gallery
1.82 km
Bay
Mitchell Wyke Ferry Bay
2.23 km
Landmark
Windermere
4.81 km
Nearby
Park
The World of Beatrix Potter Attraction
270 m
Windermere Marina Village Ferry Nab
Lake Windermere
420 m
Church
St Martin's Church
80 m
The Fun Factory Glebe Road
The Fun Factory Bowness
510 m
Store
Love the Lakes
180 m
Station Road
St Michael and All Angels Church
190 m
Bowness Bay
220 m
Theatre
The Old Laundry Theatre
240 m
Square
The Glebe
450 m
Restaurants
Village Inn Bar & Grill
90 m
Lake Road
Jackson's Bistro
150 m
West End
Terrace Coffee Lounge & Cocktail Bar at Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa
80 m
23 Church Street
Bodega Tapas Bar
120 m
Ash Street
Caffe Riva
110 m
St. Martins Square
The China Boat
70 m
Church St
Villa Positano
170 m
Villa Positano Ash Street
Hyltons
150 m
Ash Street
Lake View Garden Bar
70 m
Saint Andrews
The Albert
180 m
Queens Square
Explore Bowness-on-Windermere
Experience Bowness-on-Windermere
The World of Beatrix Potter Attraction
4 minutes' walk
Interactive exhibits bring Beatrix Potter's beloved characters to life, making it perfect for families and fans of her books.
Windermere Jetty Museum of Boats
11 minutes' walk
Showcases the history of boats in the Lake District, featuring stunning vessels and guided tours.
Blackwell The Arts and Crafts House
25 minutes' walk
An architectural gem with a stunning collection of arts and crafts, offering various exhibitions and serene gardens.
Lake Windermere
6 minutes' walk
The largest lake in England, ideal for scenic walks, boating, and picnicking while enjoying breathtaking views.
Windermere Canoe and Kayak
15 minutes' walk
Rent a canoe or kayak for a thrilling water adventure on Lake Windermere; rentals available seasonally.
Holehird Gardens
5 minutes' drive
A tranquil haven with stunning horticultural displays; great for a peaceful day out and free admission.
The Fun Factory Bowness
7 minutes' walk
Indoor play area filled with fun activities for kids, perfect for families looking to keep children entertained.
Yoga Classes at Local Studios
10 minutes' drive
Relaxing yoga sessions available at nearby studios, focusing on wellness and rejuvenation.
Terrace Coffee Lounge & Cocktail Bar
1 minute' walk
Casual atmosphere with a mix of coffee delights and creative cocktails; ideal for relaxing post-activities.
Jackson's Bistro
2 minutes' walk
Charming bistro offering an eclectic menu with locally sourced ingredients; reservations recommended.
Bodega Tapas Bar
2 minutes' walk
A vibrant place for tapas and Spanish wines, perfect for sharing dishes in a lively setting.
Village Inn Bar & Grill
2 minutes' walk
Welcoming pub with hearty menu options and a lively atmosphere; great for a casual meal and socializing.
Aquarius Amusements
8 minutes' walk
Family-friendly arcade packed with games; great fun for all ages, especially during rainy days.
The Old Laundry Theatre
5 minutes' drive
Hosts a variety of performances from drama to comedy; a cozy venue with a warm atmosphere.
The Boat House Bar & Restaurant
8 minutes' walk
Live music venue with a vibrant bar scene; great for evening entertainment and social hangouts.
Cook House Gallery
20 minutes' walk
Art gallery featuring local artists, frequently hosts exhibitions and community events suitable for all ages.
Getting around the city
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 16:00-23:59
Check-out
from 07:00-11:00
Internet
Wireless internet is available in the entire hotel for free.
Breakfast
At the hotel Macdonald Old England & Spa guests are invited to a full breakfast served for free.
Children & extra beds
There are no extra beds provided in a room.
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Languages
English, Spanish, Italian, Czech, Hungarian, Chinese, Polish, Arabic, Slovak
Year renovated:
2007
Number of floors:
4
Number of rooms:
106
Guest ratings and detailed reviews
Feedback about Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa from previous guests about their experience.
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Pros
Lovely view
Helpful staff
Modern pool
Great views
Hotel character
Cons
Poor breakfast service
Guest reviewsbased on 4 reviews
Andrew from United Kingdom
Single
deluxe double room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: February 07, 2026
9/10
excellent stay!
pretty view comfortable pillow
the room offered a pretty lake view. i found the included pool and sauna to be very good. the pillow was supremely comfortable!
0 Helpful
Jim from United Kingdom
Couple
Deluxe Double Room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: January 29, 2026
8.5/10
Lakeside Stay
ideal location friendly staff nearby restaurant lake tour
The hotel location was ideal near the lake and town center. I found many restaurants and bars within walking distance. The hotel offers lake tour boat departures nearby. The staff was friendly and professional, a definite plus.
The hotel needs some investment as parts looked a bit tired. Radiators were noisy at night.
Rooms
8/10
The room size was excellent and it had a wonderful view. I noticed the cleanliness of the rooms but the bathroom could use a little updating, which I hope will be done soon.
Service
9/10
The staff was generally helpful and made an effort. I found them willing to assist guests with various requests. I noticed they were particularly kind and sensitive, especially towards older guests needing assistance.
Facilities
8/10
I liked the spa and pool facilities, which seemed recently updated. The gym offered equipment for a good workout. The pool size allowed for decent swimming, important for my exercise routine.
Location
9/10
The hotel location was superb providing easy access to attractions. The lakeside setting and proximity to the town center were major advantages. I could walk to numerous restaurants and shops easily.
0 Helpful
|
Isabella from Italy
Couple
Deluxe Double Room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: January 20, 2026
6/10
old spa area worn towel
the location was amazing , being so close to the lake was a definite plus.
i was quite disappointed to find the spa area needing some serious attention , it really felt old and worn. the towels also showed their age , i think they desperately need replacing.
0 Helpful
Elizabeth from United Kingdom
Couple
Super Deluxe Double Room
4 nights in August 2026
|
Reviewed: October 29, 2025
9.0/10
Wonderful Lake Stay
The hotel location was perfect. It was right by the lake. The superior king room was gorgeous. It featured a huge window overlooking the lake. The bed was comfortable. The room was spacious. I found the stay very relaxing.
Service
10/10
The staff were very friendly. They were also professional. They also attended to requests promptly, I appreciated that.
Location
9/10
The hotel provided superb views and location. I appreciated its central position. It put many restaurants and attractions within walking distance. This made exploring easy.
Facilities
9/10
The spa facilities were good. The swimming pool provided a decent space for swimming. The gym also had good equipment. The sauna and steam rooms offered nice relaxation options.
Dining
8/10
Breakfast provided many choices. The breakfast room offered wonderful views, a plus. I had fish and chips one day for lunch at the hotel. It tasted amazing, though the parking was expensive!
0 Helpful
|
Show more reviews
FAQs
About Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa
What are the check-in and check-out times at Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa?
Check-in is from 16:00 and check-out is by 11:00.
Is parking available at Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa?
Private parking is available on-site for £25 per day.
What services are offered at the spa in Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa?
The spa offers a range of treatments, including massages, sauna access, and a relaxation area.
What dining options are available on-site at Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa?
The hotel features an award-winning restaurant serving modern British cuisine and a lounge bar for light meals and afternoon teas.
How far is Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa from Windermere town center?
The hotel is approximately a 20-minute walk from the center of Windermere.
What amenities are included in the rooms at Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa?
Rooms feature a flat-screen TV, tea/coffee making facilities, air conditioning, and luxury toiletries.
What recreational activities are available near Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa?
Guests can enjoy marinas, sailing, windsurfing centers, and scenic walking tours in the surrounding area.
What time is breakfast served at Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa?
Breakfast is available for an additional charge of £18.
Is the pool at Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa open year-round?
Yes, the heated indoor pool is open all year round.
What fitness facilities are available at Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa?
The hotel features a fully equipped gym and offers personal training services.
What are the nearby restaurant options close to Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa?
Nearby restaurants include Villa Positano, The Albert, and Bodega Tapas Bar, all within 0.5 km.
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